The two legendary Italian coaches go head to head in Bari tomorrow night with three Group Eight points at stake as the leaders entertain the second-placed team in a match which could have a major say in who claims automatic qualification.

Trapattoni, who was replaced by Lippi when he embarked upon his first spell in charge of the national team, had earlier described the fixture as a David v Goliath battle with little doubt over who would play the respective roles.

However, Lippi, who stood down after winning the 2006 World Cup, but is now back at the helm, said: "Personally, I think it is maybe too much.

"Trapattoni is a very experienced coach and by saying that, he is only trying to boost the Irish team.

"I don't think there is such a big gap between Italy and Ireland - we are only two points away from Ireland.

"They have done very well and we respect Ireland very much. They are a very good team, a physical team, but also with skill."

But asked if the Republic have a chance of winning in Bari, he said: "I hope not."

Saturday's win in Montenegro took Italy's tally to 13 points from a possible 15, and another victory at the San Nicola Stadium would take them five clear of Ireland, their nearest rivals.

But their approach will be the same as always.

Lippi said: "Italy, when it takes the field, plays to win always, and tomorrow will be no exception."

There is little doubt both coaches are desperate to gain the upper hand tomorrow night, but not surprisingly, they have immense respect for each other.

Lippi said: "If I should start listing all Trapattoni's qualities, we wouldn't have enough time.

"He is a great, great coach and an inspiration for managers of my generation.

"He is very experienced, very prepared and very cunning, and it's great to see him at 70 travelling the world and doing the job with such passion."